Page 85 of Knot Only His

“Because of us,” I correct him, meeting his gaze.

Chapter 21

Parker

For five long days Harlow remained in hospital. Only when her bloods showed signs of being a full omega did the hospital release her. And much to Carver’s annoyance the DRA insisted she live with her pack. And we are waiting for her body to finally catch up with the news that she is indeed an omega.

Carver keeps visiting, and each time gets easier than the last. It’s like we’ve come to an understanding. He knows we’re not going to give her up without a fight.

Harlow groans loudly, my chest tightens at her distress.

“Are you okay? Should I get uncle Kai for you,” Jagger asks as I listen through the crack in the door.

“I’m–”

I push my fingertip on the door and open it so I can see her.

She’s on her knees on the floor, surrounded by a chaos of blankets and pillows, her dark hair falling in waves across her face as she mutters to herself and stares at her nest.

“I’m fine,” she mumbles.

Vanilla and pineapple turn sharp with anxiety—the scent of distress rolling off her in waves.

Jagger sits cross-legged on the floor beside her, his math homework spread out before him. He’s barely paying attention to the numbers, too focused on Harlow’s increasingly frantic movements.

“It’s wrong, Jagger.” She stands and yanks another blanket off the bed, adding it to the pile on the floor.

“What’s wrong?” His little face scrunches with concern.

“I don’t know.” Her voice breaks. She grabs the edge of a sheet, twisting it in her hands. A soft whine escapes her throat. It’s the unmistakable sound of an omega in pre-heat.

Another whimper drifts from the room. My alpha instincts surge, wanting to comfort, to protect. But I hold back as I think about Carver. I know she needs him.

Which is fine. As long as she needs all of us in the end.

I pull out my phone and step away from the door, dialing Carver’s number.

“Yeah?” His voice is tight with tension.

“You need to get here. Bring clothes. Both for yourself for a few days and, more importantly, anything with your scent on it for Harlow.” I keep my voice low. “After the hospital warned us what will happen as a newly awakened omega, I’ve read up on it and what Harlow is going through is the start of a mini heat, and she’s struggling.”

“Fuck.” A sharp intake of breath. “How bad?”

“She’s destroying her nest. Can’t settle. Purring and whining.”

“I’ll be there in twenty.” He disconnects.

I send a text to Oliver and Asher via our group chat:

Carver’s coming over.

Harlow’s awakening heat is starting.

Their responses are immediate.

Oliver: Just finished my shower. I’ll jump in Asher’s car.

Asher: Finishing paperwork. Will be home in ten minutes.

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